In recent years,
we've heard plenty of talk about the development of a "smart grid," one
that could help distribute energy from renewable sources like solar and
wind. But so far, it hasn't materialized. With U.S. Secretary of Energy
Steven Chu's announcement of $100
million in new funding for breakthrough energy projects today, though,
could that change?
This particular installment of funds marks the third wave of stimulus money (under the Advanced Research Projects Agency - Energy program) that's specifically aimed at building a new green infrastructure. According to Chu's announcement, the new funding will target three distinct areas: grid solutions, new transmission technologies and more energy-efficient air conditioners.
The idea of a "smart grid" refers to the massive infrastructure needed to capture energy, store and then deliver it where it's needed at any given time. Transmission technologies help power get to the places it needs to be. Meanwhile, according to a VentureBeat article, energy-efficient air conditioners are part of ARPA-E's overall interest in more efficient power converters. (While more energy-efficient air conditioners might not seem like a top priority, in fact, there are huge potential energy savings that can be found in better climate cooling devices -- particularly in the tropical world.)
To read the full, original article click on this link: Energy Innovators Get a $100 Million Boost | Social Entrepreneurship | Change.org
Author: Nathaniel Whittemore
